"
"No, dearest. I think you are in error there. The Grantlys have moved
in a different sphere of life. I think you must feel that they are--"
"Upon my word, mother, I don't. One man is Rector of Plumstead, and
the other is Vicar of Framley. But it is no good arguing that. I want
you to take to Lucy Robarts. I have come to you on purpose to ask it
of you as a favour."
"Do you mean as your wife, Ludovic?"
"Yes; as my wife."
"Am I to understand that you are--are engaged to her?"
"Well, I cannot say that I am--not actually engaged to her. But you
may take this for granted, that, as far as it lies in my power, I
intend to become so. My mind is made up, and I certainly shall not
alter it."
"And the young lady knows all this?"
"Certainly."
"Horrid, sly, detestable, underhand girl," Lady Lufton said to
herself, not being by any means brave enough to speak out such
language before her son. What hope could there be if Lord Lufton had
already committed himself by a positive offer? "And her brother, and
Mrs. Robarts; are they aware of it?"
"Yes; both of them."
"And both approve of it?"
"Well, I cannot say that. I have not seen Mrs. Robarts, and do not
know what may be her opinion. To speak my mind honestly about Mark,
I do not think he does cordially approve.
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